Ginger is a versatile root for cooking and baking, used in everything from cakes to stir fries.

Buying it fresh is the best way to use the root to enjoy its delicious spicy flavour, however, proper is needed to prolong it and stop it from spoiling.

According to Abbie Leeson, owner of The Ginger People and Gin Gins, ginger can last up to six months if stored correctly.

She claims that freezing ginger is the best way to make the root last without compromising its texture.

The food expert told that freezing ginger is her favourite way to store it in the long-term - and it can last for six months this way.

The best way to do this it to cut it into coin size pieces and store it in a freezer bag.

She also claims it's possible to keep ginger at room temperature in the short term, but this should be avoided for longer than a week.

"With time, it will start to lose its moisture and flavor, then shrivel," she said.

Ginger can last up to four weeks when stored in the fridge, however, the texture may also change, according to the expert.

"It can last three to four weeks, but it may get spongy in the refrigerator," she said. She added that this is her least favourite way to store ginger.

According to Leeson, ginger can also be stored in oil when washed and peeled.

"This can both preserve freshness and infuse flavor," she added. She recommends keeping the oil in the fridge to allow the ginger to infuse the oil.

When it comes to choosing ginger at the supermarket, Leeson has some tips for picking a fresher piece. "If the skin is shiny and the hand is heavy and plump, it's most likely fresher," she said.

"Just break off a finger from the hand of fresh ginger, like you would a banana from a bunch. The exposed piece will heal over quickly for the next person."